What must a water system have to be classified as a Public Water System?

For a water system to be classified as a Public Water System, it is essential that it provides regular service to at least 25 individuals on a daily basis, or constitutes a minimum of 15 service connections. This classification is important because it categorizes the system within a regulatory framework that ensures the water supplied meets safety and quality standards. These standards are enforced to protect public health and to manage the system effectively, ensuring that the water is potable and safe for consumption.

While having a specific number of connections or undergoing annual reviews might be relevant for certain evaluations of water systems, the fundamental criterion that directly relates to the definition of a Public Water System is the service to a consistent population of at least 25 people. This aspect aligns with the intent of regulatory bodies to monitor and maintain the public's water supply effectively. The requirement for facilities to be underground is not a criterion for classification, which focuses primarily on population and service rather than the infrastructure's physical characteristics.